Decision making is probably the area that most rugby players need to work on. In particular how to create space, make a mis-match or simple exploit a 2 on 1.
I think many of us have experienced endless static 2 on 1, 3 on 1 and 4 on 1 drills; but is that really the best way to learn?
I am a firm believer that game related skills sessions are a better way to learn.
I will outline a simple drill that will promote decision making, passing, support and also defence.
Like many of the games I like this can start with young children and evolve as your players get older. It can also be used as adults and in addition to the skills practiced it also increases aerobic fitness.
Channel Touch
Equipment required, market cones, bibs & balls.
Simple mark your pitch into channels, the width will depend on the age of your players and their ability.
For mini rugby I would make them 5 metres wide expanding to 10 metres wide as adults.
The idea is to have at least 1 more player than you have channels.
So if you are a mini side have 3 x 5 metre channels and play 4 a side. 3 players from each side must stay in a specified channel with the spare player able to float between channels. The idea is that this player attempts to create space, mis matches and 2 on 1 situations. Rotate the players so each player plays in each channel and each player floats.
As your team develops you can add in channels, widen them and add in extra floaters.
As a hint you can use the side way markings on the pitch.
Play from touchline to touchline.
Use maker cones to make a line half way between 10 metre line and 22 metre line, and then again use maker cones to divide the 22 metre area in half.
Immediately you have 5 x 10 metre channels on the pitch without using lots of cones.
Also use the traditional lines on the pitch and attack the posts.
From the touchline use the following
Touchline to 5 metre as narrow outside channel
5 metre to 15 metre
15 metre to line of cones 10 metres away
Replicate this from the other side of the pitch
This will make 7 channels on the pitch (4 x 10 metre channels, 2 x 5 metre channels and 1 larger central channel) with minimum use of cones.
You can then expand this to 9 a side 7 players filling the channels and 2 floating.
Donny
